DIOCESE OF AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND: August 22, 2013The Missionary Visit of Protodeacon Andrei Kuraev to the Diocese of Australia and New Zealand ends

Churches, parishes and clubs of Australia: in Sydney, Brisbaine, Adelaide, Melbourne, New Zealand’s Oakland and Wellington, a full schedule, multi-hour lectures, meetings and discussions, conversations with clergymen and hundreds of laypersons. This was the regimen of the world-renowned protodeacon and writer, Professor Andrei Kuraev of Moscow Theological Academy during his visit to the Diocese of Australia and New Zealand.

Every meeting with Fr Andrei evoked genuine interest in his listeners, each of whom could pose questions on theological, historical and ecclesiastical matters. The Reverend contributed a great deal of time not only during lectures, but tried to carefully listen to everyone who asked a question, give a considered response and invite discussion. Fr Andrei also participated in many divine services throughout the diocese and read sermons. In each church one heard words of earnest gratitude from the parishioners for his visit.

Svetlana Nikolaevna Dalskaya deserves special thanks, who is due credit for Protopriest Andrei’s trip, to Deacon John Bots for arranging for transportation throughout Australia, and to the editorial staffs of Edinenie and Vremy for their support.